Just the tip of an Iceberg

Hello March 2012

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 13:43:01 PST

Hello March 2012. You came so suddenly. I can't believe that in a few days I will turn 36. Whew. What a ripe age for everything in life. I am happy that despite all the challenges and ordeals, I came through them alive and well. Most importantly, I came through with a better perspective and lots of positivity that I am still a happy person regardless of the circumstance. My family is better too. My father finally shaved his beard. Now he does not look like Ramon Mitra, but Virus, the school director from the movie 3 Idiots. Hahaha.. Kidding aside, I am happy that he has done so. It is an indication that he is now okay with his living condition, though he is still naturally coping from the TS Sendong devastation. I can't wait to use the grills with my father's recipe on grilled meat and fish. Now that he is back to his cheerful self, I am sure he will be back exploring in the kitchen, like he's done so before Sendong.

So dear March, cooperate. Please be kinder than December, January and February. Please allow us to fully recover...

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The Beach: A Stress Debriefer

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 04:35:12 PST

Last Saturday, my family were busy moving things from the pad to the new places of dwelling, for me, my sister and Lili, as well as for my parents and 2 siblings. It was quite tough having to wake up early and carrying such heavy load. But we had a brief beach session after our first round of transfer since the house that my parents will be living in temporarily is 10 minutes away from the beach.

So we stopped to take a dip, and eventually had our breakfast there. I think we spent more than an hour there. The kids had fun, although it is quite evident for my little brother that he is afraid of drowning, and he talks about the water resembling that of the flooding.. for the first time after more than two months, he was able to articulate his experience and fears during the TS Sendong flash flood. Lili on the other hand, is trying so hard to swim. She said that she should learn how to swim so that she will not be afraid when the next flood will happen. That is of course a great opportunity for debriefing the two.. I believe that kids need to be debriefed every now and then, as the trauma must be faced head on in order to be liberated and for the survivor to fully recover.

Now, every weekend will be a beach debriefing session with my family. It will also be a bonding session and a swimming lesson day for the two..

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That Angry Bird Birthday Loot

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 00:12:17 PST

It was a few months back that my daughter attended her classmate's birthday and she got the birthday loot above. The huge Angry Bird was actually a balloon that got scarred so all the air came out of it. What's left is something my daughter would like to make a kite body..I am not really sure how, but my daughter insists that it will just be easy...

Hmm...

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Kiddie Summer Program

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 23:48:39 PST

I just arrived from Culinary Institute of Cagayan de Oro, where we were invited to a baking demo by Chef Hasset Go of Med Chef, one of their senior chefs. I found out that they are offering a 4-day Kiddie Chef program for the summer, and I am interested to enroll my daughter who is actually a chef wanna-be. I could also enroll her in a music summer program or learn the guitar like that of j mascis jazzmaster, but I am afraid I do not know where to enroll her. Of course, I could only afford two programs for her this summer, and swimming is one of them already.

Anyway, I am sure we can decide when summer is near. In the mean time, we just have to focus on her studies, as well as find a better alternative to her school for June. I am no longer happy with her current school so I will transfer her to a new one while it is not yet to late.

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CIC Open House Today..

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 23:21:34 PST

We were invited to attend the pre-CIC Open House activity where Chef Hasset Go conducted a baking demo dubbed as "My Favorite Cakes Cooking Demo". It was nice to be able to witness and even join Chef Hasset Go as he prepared his cakes.

But then we lacked time to finish the Concorde, so we only had the two cakes below:

The very yummy Caramel Custard Cake and the Chocolate Truffle Cake. Oh, and Chef Hasset Go signed our recipe booklets, while we were given Cookies made by CIC students as tokens.

Well, after the lunch that they served us, all seven of us shared a slice of each cake to taste. And just before we left, we were given umbrellas. So timely because it was really hot outside the building. We did not opt to join the Open House this afternoon for we have so much to do. Anyway, we had fun.. so thanks CIC for the invite..

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Growing Up..

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 22:58:29 PST

Last February 14, 2012, my baby brother bought my mother a flower bouquet from his own pockets. Then I heard him say that he is saving his money for mother's day gifts come May 2012. Oh how my baby brother has grown. Unfortunately, he prefers to buy things rather than make things like cards and all others. My Lili, on the other hand, continues to make cards and story books with her bare hands. I love the thought that the two kids are thoughtful enough to save their allowance for items as well as materials to use for the stuff they want to give. And proudly I can say that such characteristic is distinct with our kiddies at home. I am glad that they are growing up as good persons.

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Sendong Monthsary Today..

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 07:32:32 PST

We have started cleaning the apartment yesterday, continued clean up this morning and tomorrow we are going to officially move in to a new place-- me, my sister and Lili, but not my parents and siblings. Although, we are going with them to the house where they will be moving at 4 in the morning. My father says he is not feeling safe in the new apartment, and not comfortable too. For awhile I thought that moving to a bigger space is the solution, but not! And I do understand why he wants to move to his own property. After two months of being "displaced", a term we usually coined with those who are living "not in their own home", is true to some extent in my father's perspective. Since moving here in the pad, we have not been comfortable with the lessor's attitude. Well, they always have the right to do things according to their rules. That's always the downside when one is renting. And my parents have not been renting for quite a long while. So two months may just be enough for them to live in an uncomfortable set up.

Anyway, they are moving to a family property in Opol. My father says, he will feel comfortable there because he owns the place. No rules of another person outside the family to follow. Not that we are fond of breaking rules, it's just that some people, especially the eccentric ones, impose rules that are way too much to even understand. But the said move for them is of course just temporary, while waiting for the unit that they have recently applied for in a small community in Gran Europa. Well, the necessary requirements have already been met, but some concerns regarding paperwork and such have taken quite a while. Anyhow, as soon as they're done, then they will be moving there again.

I guess you could say that home can never be home unless you will feel comfortable about living in that particular space. As for me and my sister, we'll do the challenge this time, in a more complicated, hopefully rewarding manner. So before the month ends, we shall be divided again, and shall part ways. Hoping for better horizons and a brighter, fruitful, happier future.

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5 Tips For Teaching Your Kids To Be Organized

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 07:52:51 PST

Kids and disorganization frequently go hand in hand, and although some chaos is typically standard fare when raising kids, it doesn't have to rule your home! Being organized is a skill that anyone can learn. Since most kids are not naturally inclined to be neat, learning this important skill will help them build good habits and self discipline that will contribute to their success in school, career and all areas of life. The following are some simple ways to help your kids learn the art of organization.

1. Hold A Family Strategy Session

Planning how you want to tackle getting your home organized will involve the entire family. Therefore, get everyone involved! Before you present the idea to your kids, create an overview of the areas in your home that are the most disorganized. Once you have done this, hold a family strategy session, letting everyone contribute ideas on how to create order from the chaos. Getting your kids involved will help them feel a sense of ownership, making their participation something to take pride in rather than something to dread.

2. Lead By Example

The easiest way to teach your kids to be organized is to practice what you preach. Start by designating a place for things that are used regularly by all household members. If you are disorganized yourself, this will be a bit of a challenge at first, but don't despair! It will get easier with a little practice. Make a list of things your kids use daily, such as toys or school books, and designate a specific place for these items, making sure that they are returned to the same spot when not in use. As your kids become more consistent, add additional items to the list. Before you know it, you will have organized kids and a well organized home! Remember, too, that the younger you start training your kids to be organized, the easier it will be.

3. Decluttering Your Way To Success

The best organizational plans can quickly end in frustration if your home is hopelessly cluttered! Make decluttering the house a family event. Have everyone go through closets and bedrooms, sorting out unwanted items. Once this is done, have each person designate where different items will go in their area and label it. This will help them to stay organized in the future. By starting with a neat home, it will also be easier to keep it that way.

4. Show and Tell

Sometimes kids will bend the truth, especially when asked if they have completed unpleasant tasks, such as cleaning, organizing or doing their homework. This is when show and tell becomes a crucial step in the organization process. Whether it's cleaning and organizing, or completing their homework, it's best to have them show you exactly what they have done. If they have a heavy homework load, which is common when they are attending junior high and high school, they may simply forget an assignment. By actually examining their work, you can be confident that they have completed all of their assignments. Your kids will also be confident that they will arrive at school ready for class, with their completed homework in hand. It is helpful to get them in the habit of placing completed assignments in their school backpack, leaving it by the door ready for the next school day.

5. Reward Accomplishments

Some might consider rewarding their kids by paying them for helping around the house to be bribery, but it can be a great way to teach responsibility and a strong work ethic. After all, when we report to work each day, we expect to be paid for our efforts. Kids respond equally well to being rewarded for their efforts! Just be sure that the reward offered is realistic pay for the work being performed. Most people wouldn't promise their teenager a Ferrari for simply cleaning their room and taking out the trash. A few dollars allowance each week, or a visit to the local mall for that new CD or outfit they have been talking about, however, might suffice as equitable compensation! Be sure to make it clear that if their room is a mess, homework is incomplete or their chores not done, no reward is forthcoming. James is the employee of a British printer cartridge supplier which means he works with a whole range of toner cartridges and printer ink when he’s not setting up the blog.

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Bills, Money and Everything Else to See..

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 16:22:02 PST

I already saw, held and had a photo op with Singapore's biggest currency. Ten thousand Singaporean Dollars, and it's just one bill. Well, it wasn't mine, but my Ilonggo turned Singaporean citizen uncle's money. It was really nice to see that and when I was asked by Singaporean Immigration, on our way back from Johor Bahru, in December 2010, during their standard operating procedures checking of bags, some of them are not even familiar with the bill. Anyway, that's really something. I have yet to see ms70 gold eagles, which I have always been curious about.

On the lighter note, I have already seen frog legs sold at the wet market. Tempting to buy some, but I have reservations as I do not know how to cook it..

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Barney at Dinosaurs Alive!

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:11:08 PST

Tuesday this week, we went to Lim Ket Kai Center to see the Dinosaurs Alive exhibits. Lili and River enjoyed the exhibit very much.. But then, there are other kids who got scared of the Dinos..

Good thing Barney was there to make them calm down.. Well, kids will always be kids--

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Great Time for a Ceramic Ring

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:54:05 PST

There are many people that work hard with their hands. There are many jobs that require physical labor and for you to use your hands a lot to accomplish your work. If you are married you want to be able to wear a wedding band that will always look good and will hold up to your tough jobs. If you fall in to this category you might want to look into getting a ceramic ring. These rings are made from some of the best metal in the world. The name might give you the impression that they aren’t as tough as they are, in fact you might even think these rings would be fragile. This is not a correct assumption. These rings can break but they are very hard to scratch. So if you are working a lot with your hands it is a wise choice to go with ceramic wedding bands Ceramic is a lot newer to the wedding industry than tungsten jewelry but it is making a lot of people happy. People find that a black ceramic ring is so much superior to a black tungsten ring. Black tungsten is simply a tungsten ring that is coated a with pvc coating. This coating has a propensity to wear off. It also looks old and worn when it wears off. The good thing about a black ceramic ring is that it is black all the way through it. So it will never fade or wear off. It is better looking and lasts much longer.

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Cake Journey in Butuan City

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:36:56 PST

I have finally visited Margie's in Butuan City.. I was there last week until Sunday, and I was actually in cake heaven. Not only Margie's but the other cake shops as well. Call it, the cake journey in Butuan City, lol. Well, what good is having a sweet tooth when you do not explore the sweetest possibilities, right? So from Margie's, I was able to taste the Margie's Cookie Monster Cake, as well as the Margie's Sans Rival----

Apart from this, we also got to taste Margie's Thai Rice, I forgot the name, which is actually my cousin's favorite. I love Margie's... The place is really nice. Cozy, intimate and the staff are well trained. They are even very nice and most importantly, they are polite. Of course, the food makes them all stand out. I swear, I will go back to Margie's when I go back to Butuan.. hmm.. Until next trip!

The next day, we decided to go to St. Joseph Cathedral, and attend the first Friday mass. Soon after, we headed to Red Apple. The food at Red Apple in Butuan City had always been commendable. I have often tasted treats from them because my aunt usually buys pasalubong from them. But that day we dropped by, was my first time to dine there. The staff were NOT nice. I didn't like how they answer questions, while the cashier was too nosy.

Anyhow, I liked Red Apple Casava Pie and the Red Apple Sacher Torte that we ordered. Unfortunately, I find their drinks too expensive. Imagine, that sakto size for P 18?

Anyway, since food is nice at Red Apple, I could actually NOT stop patronizing them. But since service is bad, and the staff are not that friendly, I will not go back to dine there again. Maybe just buy some food, take it home and that's it. The ambiance there is not that good too. It's pricey, but it's not at all worth the price. It is just like a fastfood center only, the servers at Red Apple are not cautious of how they treat their guests. So instead of me ordering a birthday cake for my cousin, I did not. Which is actually good because I would not be able to discover Baker's Joy.

Baker's Joy in Butuan City is probably second to Margie's. At least if I will rank all three cake shops in Butuan City. At nine in the morning of the 4th, we went to Baker's Joy in M. Calo Street and the moment we entered the place, I loved all the delicious aromas coming from their kitchen. And the cake display is full, and fresh. Upon seeing two of my favorites, we immediately ordered Baker's Joy Nelusco Cake and Baker's Joy Brazo de Mercedes. It was a heavenly morning for me and my sister. Sweet breakfast, if I may add. Then my sister said we should try their brownie, and it was a delight.

For my cousin, we bought her Baker's Joy Double Chocolate Cake. It was amazingly perfect. Chocolate goodness that is not too sweet nor overpowering. What's even more delightful is the fact that the cakes and pastries at Baker's Joy are not expensive at all. Oh, and the staff at Baker's Joy are wonderful. They were courteous and helpful. I wish Red Apple would follow suit and train their staff similar to Margie's and Baker's Joy..

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Our Neighbor

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 22:05:36 PST

My neighbor was asking my brother for some wire ducts to use in their home. Since we have not returned to Balulang after Sendong, my brother has not been able to give him his request. I pity this meighbor of ours because they have loaned a huge amount of money for capital as they have just opened a new business before Sendong ravaged the city.

When Sendong hit our place, their makeshift store inside their home were all washed out because the grills and their fence collapsed. Even their refrigerator had been lost. So in time of recovery, they were only able to recover a few things, but not their bread and butter.

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Organizing Your Financial Needs

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 17:00:42 PST

The main thing you should remember when planning a budget to manage your financial needs is that even the greatest plan can and will fall apart in the face of emergency issues unplanned for.

The First Steps

Do what it takes to organize mentally the information as well. Writing or typing your budget with a variety of colors can help encourage building a better memory of all of the different elements and details.

Spend a week writing down every cent you spend. Once you have established a system, input that into an office file, template, or even an application for budget management.
On your calendar, write the due dates of every bill you have along with that months bill amount due, or at worst, a healthy average.
If it would be beneficial to have a specific bill due at a different time of the month, try to call those creditors and see if it can be arranged, often they will work with you to prorate a bill one month to get you on a better track for the future.

Remember, if you have an emergency that arises in the middle of your strictly planned budget, and you will, do not hesitate to take out short-term no fax payday loans from PayDay One.

In this way you can supplement your budget temporarily, without taking a chunk from your bank account and destroying all of the things that drove you to budget your finances in the first place.

Additional tips to help keep your budget organized and prepared for emergencies when at all possible can include:

Never write checks unless the money is there, now.
Do not put anything short of necessary emergency medical help on a credit card.
Always save something from every working household member's paycheck. Even five dollar donations can truly add up and help in a pinch.
If your property or vehicle is the most vital element of your livelihood, be sure to protect them with no fax payday loans from PayDay One to protect your investments at all cost.

Even when the economy is thriving, it is important to retain a working knowledge grasp on your family's expenditures. Following a budget can reap rewards for all in the forms of enjoyable household upgrades or even vacations. Balancing out a budget with strict practices that provide enjoyable rewards is also a great way to teach children a good system for life.

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Prepping My Vision Board

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:09:17 PST

I saw an ad online that is actually inquiring about where to buy an electric pool heater. At first glance I thought that the post was for selling one but when I read it again, it was actually an inquiry. Well, I don't exactly know the answer but it led me to search for it online. I guess I was just excited prepping my vision board, lol.

In my vision board, you will not only see images of places, houses, and all others common in one's wish board. Mine includes the small stuff as well. So that the house includes a pool, and of course, what type of design it will have as well as its accessories. Thus, the interest in the ad.

My daughter is even more accurate in the hair style and dresses that she had included, as well as the toys that she wants. The doll house that she dreams of, the cool stuff to place in them. It's like mom and daughter are designing lives with just pictures. And we are having fun too.

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Do You Think This Is Safe?

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:44:48 PST

I saw this shared at Facebook. But I have doubts whether it is safe for my laptop or not. Of course, it would NOT be safe for the safe conscious, but perhaps it can be something useful at some point..

Now tell me what you think...

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The Von Trapp Family

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:53:08 PST

I found this photo of the Von Trapp Family of The Sound of Music shared by my friends in Facebook. I find it heartwarming, that after 45 years, as was the caption, we can still see them all complete. Reminds me of those melodious songs and the story that was just so dear to most of us who have seen it...

The Family Von Trapp's story in The Sound of Music may be true to life, but I also found out from www.archives.com that the story has been changed quite a bit to fit the storyline of the big screen.. I just love that movie..

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Tips to Consider When Moving Out

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 07:04:35 PST

Moving out is a big step, but it’s an important one on the road to adulthood. People usually move away from home when they are between 18 and 25, but there is no hard rule about this. It should happen when a person is financially ready to support himself or herself and mature enough to handle the worries of self-sufficiency.

Planning to Move Out

Image via Wikipedia

The most important thing to plan for when moving out is rent. You need to find an apartment that fits within your budget that also has the features you need, such as being close to school or having multiple bedrooms so you can have roommates. Also, remember that the price of rent varies greatly from area to area. For instance, you’ll have to pay more money for apartments for rent in Tampa FL than a smaller area such as Denver CO.

Try to keep your rent as low as possible, especially for your first place until you get a better sense of where your money will be going and what expenses you won’t be able to do without. In addition, there are other costs to worry about other than just the rent when you are moving out. You also need to budget for the following:

Food: If you’re not used to buying food for yourself, you’d be surprised how expensive it is. When you first move out, plan on budgeting $50-plus per week for groceries. This money can include your toiletries, too. You’ll find out over time what your average weekly cost of groceries is so that you can better budget for the future.

Utilities: Unless you find an apartment that includes the utilities with your rent, you will have to pay for your gas, electricity and water on separate bills. This can be expensive if you’re not used to turning off the lights when they are not in use. This will probably be $75 or more per month for one person, but there are other factors, such as the age of your apartment and its size that can make this number go up or down.

Clothing: If you don’t budget a little bit of money each month for your wardrobe, it won’t take long for it to be in shambles. You don’t have to buy expensive clothing, but you should continually add to it and replacing old items.

Transportation: If you don’t have a car, try to find an apartment that offers easy access to public transportation. You need to be able to get to school or work. If you do have a car, getting an apartment with plenty of parking will make your life a little easier.

These are just a few tips to consider when you’re thinking about moving out. Plan ahead and you will be able to find the perfect apartment for you so that you can live on your own and feel like an adult.

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Lotsa Chocolates

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 07:15:43 PST

Sendong devastated our lives from December 17 last year until the weeks of Christmas and New Year. Now that it is nearing a month, I could say that we have already bounced back and are feeling the need to move forward, lest we fall back into nothingness. Starting from scratch is not easy. We have to find a new home, and a new environment where we can all have peace of mind and not worry when another flood would come.

One of our friends who gave help during our first few weeks trying to survive Sendong's aftermath gave us lots of chocolates . I couldn't figure out why chocolates were given, and not candies. Then, it dawned on me that since chocolates provide immediate energy at half the time, then it is such a great idea. However, lots of water is necessary so as not to contract sugar related diseases. They were all yummy chocolates which we plan to buy, unfortunately, they are not available locally.

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Bouncing Back

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:13:31 PST

It's almost a month after that Sendong tragedy struck our city. Survivors are now bouncing back, and living life as normally as possible. Some manage to go back to their workplaces and do what's best to survive further. Some even went back to their houses and lived lives as if nothing has happened. While for others, whose houses are no longer livable, have moved to a new house, in a new environment. Some have even managed to go shopping already. Buying new clothes, necklaces with titanium pendants, shoes, bags, or whatever they fancy. On the other hand, majority of the TS Sendong victims are still at the evacuation centers and some of them have slowly been relocated to the tent City in Canitoan.

Sadly, there were those who have not really been relocated that chose to end their lives like Roy Navarro for instance, who committed suicide after learning that he and his family were not included in the list for evacuees to be relocated. It would have been comforting if someone briefed the evacuees prior to the start of relocation.

As for my family, I am happy that everyone's bouncing back. Adults now back to work, and kids back to school. Somehow, we are now able to see a brighter future ahead.. I hope everyone does too.

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to help solve sanitation problems in evacuation centers

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 11:05:47 PST

One of the major concerns at the evacuation centers as well as at the relocation site for Sendong victims, is sanitation and a place where evacuees can move their wastes.. So here is a $700 portable... or what's inside it..

I remember last week I reposted on my wall at Facebook about the ecosan, and I am so happy that it caught a reader's attention, and to that effect, a donor.. Thank you Roa-Hammond Family... I am actually reposting it here for a wider reach...

TO THOSE WHO STILL WANT TO DONATE: Here's one good cause to help solve sanitation problems in evacuation centers. Elmer Sayre, XU Aggie Alumni and head of an NGO (Water, Agroforestry, Nutrition and Development Foundation, Inc), have started building portable toilets for Macasandig and West City Central. So far, a total of 15 toilets have been built and now operational have stopped open defecation. Other evacuation centers are clamoring for more, but the NGO's funds is running out. The NGO is calling out for donations for this cause. For every donated portable toilet (P8000), the NGO will match it 100%. If you are interested in helping CDO's sanitation, here's the contact details:

CONTACT PERSON: Elmer Sayre
PHONE: 09218041573
EMAIL ADDRESS: elmer2222001@yahoo.com

WEBSITES:http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/health-sanitation-and-food-security-for-3000-filipinos/ and http://www.wandphilsorg.com/

Anyway, I have read about the project of Mr. Elmer Sayre, and I am happy to find that his ecosan is even much better than the $700 portable shown above. The ecosan is actually good for the environment. The toilets can be placed anywhere, as it is easy to transport, easy to use, does not need water and best of all, recycle human waste to fertilizer.... It may be simple looking, but it is what we need at this time. It's cheaper too. If one donates at the cost of P 8,000, WAND Foundation will match it 100%, meaning, you get two ecosan toilets installed. One toilet including 2 weeks supply of toilet paper, soap, and all others cost about 186 USD. Please contact elmer2222001@yahoo.com should you wish to donate.

Here are single vault ecosan with EcoPee urinals at the side... Transporting pre-fabricated ecosan units is easy, and four can actually fit in a lory.

In case you are wondering how waste is taken from the units, the feces container is actually rattan basket which is lined with heavy duty sack, and a garbage bag.

Since the problem here in Cagayan de Oro City, after Sendong is water, the ecosan toilets can really help minimize water and sanitation problems. I hope many more agencies and organizations will help provide potable waterless toilets like the ecosan units in the many evacuation centers in the city..

Oh and I should like to point out that this great idea came from an Internationally multi-awarded Filipino named Elmer Sayre from Initao, Misamis Oriental.. Proudly Filipino and a Mindanaoan... (Photo credit goes to him as well, as I have simply borrowed the three images from his FB account.)

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No Cabinets

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 18:14:22 PST

Since the flood, my family had been staying here at my pad, all squeezed in and even occupying the receiving area. The pad is actually just good for two people, but here we are, eight and happy. I bought four new cushioned mats for this purpose and since there are not enough cabinets, here is where my brother keeps his clothes.

I am glad that they have applied for an RFO housing and I think in less than a month, they shall be able to move out of the pad and move in to their new home.. with lots of cabinets...

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Cold Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 17:58:18 PST

Christmas went by and soon, we await the coming of the new year. It is quite sad what happened to our beloved city. Everyone, even those who have not experienced flooding had a really cold holiday. Not even the use of electric blankets could ease such coldness..

I feel for those who have lost loved ones and have mourned the dead instead of celebrating Christmas. I feel for those who have missing family members and loved ones who, until family and relatives do not have any clue as to their whereabouts. It feels strange to celebrate when anywhere you look, devastation is evident. Added to the problem of no water and electricity, the gravity of the typhoon's wrath is severely felt.

On the other hand, people in Cagayan de Oro have worked hand in hand to help the victims get back on their feet. Sooner or later, all Kagay-anon victims of the flash flood shall rise up again..

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What To Do After Sendong: Celebrate Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 08:58:28 PST

Sendong has left its mark in everyone of us, whether we lost a loved one or property. Many lives have changed in a split second. Many plans have not pushed through, and some didn't make it till Christmas. I guess people or companies selling flowers online will not notice this, but those who sell them at the shops here in our city, say their business is not good this year as there are not many people buying their gift items and flowers.

Sendong may have claimed lives and counting, yet after its devastation, there is only one thing to do, that is, to look at the bright side of the said tragedy. So today, Christmas day, I celebrate Christmas, though I am not in the spirit to do so. I did a little shopping, cooked spaghetti and wrapped my presents for the kids. I am doing it with a heavy heart, knowing that there are so many who could not celebrate the season even if they want to. But then again, I am doing this for the two kids who went through the hellish ordeal during Sendong's visit..

Anyway, as the clock struck midnight and I had been relaxing after Noche Buena preparation, fireworks started to appear on the night sky, and the kids just enjoyed them like no Sendong ever came to ruin our beloved city.. Well, we shall rise up after this catastrophe and because Sendong has tested our faith and patience, we shall come out of this far stronger than before..

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Typhoon Sendong (Washi) Came, Conquered But We Shall Overcome!

noreply@blogger.com (MOMMY DHARLZ) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 04:16:11 PST

I have not been online much since Friday night because there was a storm. I thought it was just heavy down pours that shall pass, but it was not just passing through. It passed and caused millions to lose their homes, lives and properties. It was definitely a tragedy, and one that has made Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan City suffer and mourn after it left..

My family is one of its victims, and some of my relatives and friends. It was difficult to ask help from anyone because everywhere you looked, someone's direct family or close relatives are victims too. But what's so good about Filipinos is that, we share burdens as much as we share blessings. We smile even after the storm and go on with life..

Today, my baby brother and daughter joined their school's Christmas party, even without proper clothes. My brother wore a tee shirt that was given by a fellow mommy blogger and friend, girly underwear of my daughter's, pants of my daughter's with a not so recognizable Minnie Mouse drawing at the pockets and my daughter's purple rubber shoes. He was not trendy when he went there, but I was happy to see that he was happy about the gifts he received. Perhaps that short while he has forgotten the trauma that Sendong has caused upon us. The dead bodies that continue to rise in number, the many victims at the different relocation sites who lost homes and property, even loved ones, and the children who are going hungry and dehydrated.. My daughter and my brother have been in the same position as with the other kids, submerged in water, praying to be saved. While others have not made it, most are suffering and are in need of help..

Typhoon Sendong (Washi) Came, Conquered But We Shall Overcome! I just hope the kids will not live a life forever traumatized by Typhoon Sendong's 30 minute attack that have turned the city in sorrow.. Thinking positively, we shall overcome! This too shall pass..

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